Germany’s new Chancellor Friedrich Merz congratulated “His Holiness Pope Leo XIV” on being elected to head the Catholic Church.
Robert Prevost, formerly a cardinal from Chicago, was elected on Thursday to head the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
He has taken the name Leo XIV.
Merz, who is Catholic, said in a press statement that people in Germany look to the new pontificate with confidence and positive expectations.”
“Through your office, you provide hope and guidance to millions of believers worldwide during these times of great challenges.
“For many people, you are an anchor for justice and reconciliation.”
